After 6 years of teaching a master's-level nurse practitioner course (average 75 students) using TBL, I received the following email yesterday from a male NP student "of a certain age" which was so confirming that TBL really applies evidence-based, best practices:

 

"I wanted to approach you today after the final exam to thank you for one of the most enjoyable and energizing experiences I have had in my higher education experience, but you were surrounded by students doing the same thing.
I have six earned degrees (including an EdD) and almost 700 semester hours.  I have taught at all levels.  I don't usually disclose that, but wanted you to know that I know from where I speak.  You have, truly, mastered and applied the best practices for adult learning in your classroom.  The experience was inspirational.  Thank you for that."

Thanks to the TBL strategy, it is obvous to my students that the joy of teaching has been revived for me!  So those of you new to TBL, please stay the course and follow the strategy as closely as you can because it's worth it.

Robin L. Hills, MS, RN, WHNP-BC, CNE
Clinical Assistant Professor
VCU School of Nursing
Department of Family and Community Health Nursing
Box 980567, Richmond, VA 23298
(804) 828-5578